“And the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof” (Ezekiel 9:4, KJV).

ABSTRACT

This exploration delves into the roots of rifts within our community, highlighting how deviations from core teachings create true divides, examines God’s compassionate delay in unfolding end-time prophecies including the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, describes the seal as a safeguard amid ultimate trials, considers the exposure of unfaithful guides in final times, contemplates how these sifting processes manifest divine mercy, encourages individual soul-searching, and urges a recommitment to harmony anchored in unchanging principles.

WHO REALLY CAUSES DIVISION: A CALL TO TRUTH AND UNITY

I’ve seen firsthand how easily division can arise within faith communities. It’s a heartbreaking reality, like a tear in the fabric of our shared belief. But who is truly responsible for these rifts? Are they the ones who cling to tradition, or those who challenge the status quo? Let’s delve into this complex issue, seeking clarity and understanding through the lens of Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White. Division emerges when foundational truths are abandoned. History echoes with accusations of heresy and schism. Romanists have long pointed fingers at Protestants, claiming they broke away from the “true church.” But a closer look reveals a different narrative. The early Christian church, vibrant and united, held fast to the teachings of Christ and the apostles. However, as Romanism gained power, it gradually drifted from these foundational truths. In The Great Controversy we read, they “laid down the banner of Christ” (p. 51, 1911). This departure, this subtle shift in focus, caused the real separation. The Protestants, in their quest to return to biblical principles, were not the instigators of division, but rather the ones striving for restoration. They were like those who sought to mend a broken vessel, not shatter it further. Christ warns against divisive influences, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them” (Romans 16:17, KJV). Paul emphasizes harmony, “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, KJV). A prophetic voice once wrote, “Union is strength; division is weakness. When those who believe present truth are united, they exert a telling influence. Satan well understands this” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 535, 1885). Through inspired counsel we are told, “There is comfort and peace in the truth, but no real peace or comfort can be found in falsehood” (The Desire of Ages, p. 671, 1898). This historical context is crucial for understanding the dynamics of separation. But why does God allow such separations to unfold in His own timing?

WHY DOES GOD WAIT FOR THE END?

God’s mercy dictates the pace of prophetic fulfillment. We often wonder about the timing of end-time events. Why doesn’t the Sunday decree, the final test of loyalty, happen sooner? The answer lies in God’s infinite mercy and justice. He is a God of love, not arbitrary judgment. Sr. White explains, “Not one is made to suffer the wrath of God until the truth has been brought home to his mind and conscience, and has been rejected” (The Great Controversy, p. 605, 1911). Think of it like a potter carefully shaping clay. He wouldn’t rush the process before the clay is ready. Many are still unaware of the full truth concerning the fourth commandment, the Sabbath. God, who sees into the depths of every heart, ensures that no one genuinely seeking truth will remain in darkness. The Latter Rain, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, will illuminate these truths, empowering the final proclamation of the Sabbath (Early Writings, p. 33, 1882). This will be a time of intense clarity, allowing everyone to make an informed choice, a moment of profound personal decision. Scripture assures divine provision, “Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field” (Zechariah 10:1, KJV). Joel proclaims rejoicing, “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month” (Joel 2:23, KJV). The inspired pen notes, “The exact time of the second coming of the Son of man is God’s mystery” (The Desire of Ages, p. 633, 1898). A passage from The Review and Herald reminds us, “Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain” (March 2, 1897). This historical context is crucial for understanding the dynamics of separation. But what role does the seal play in this ultimate separation?

HOW DOES THE SEAL DIVIDE US?

The seal marks those loyal amid global conflict. The Sunday decree, the substitution of human law for God’s law, is described by Sr. White as “the last act in the drama” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 141, 1902). It’s the culmination of a long struggle between truth and error, light and darkness. When this decree becomes universal, probation will close, and God’s divine presence will be revealed in all its glory. Just as the Israelites were marked for protection during the plagues of Egypt (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 505, 1885), so too will God’s faithful people receive His seal of protection during the final events. This separation, this sifting of the wheat from the chaff, is a necessary process. It’s a time of choosing, a moment of defining who we truly are and where our loyalties lie. Will we stand firm on the solid rock of God’s Word, or will we be swayed by the shifting sands of human opinion? Revelation protects the sealed, “And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads” (Revelation 9:4, KJV). Paul instructs, “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption” (Ephesians 4:30, KJV). Through inspired counsel we are told, “The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character” (The Review and Herald, May 21, 1895). In Testimonies to Ministers we read, “The one shall be taken. His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God” (p. 234, 1923). This separation will touch every level of the church, even its leadership. But who will remain faithful in guiding us through these last days?

WHO LEADS IN THE FINAL DAYS?

True leaders emerge tested and true in crisis. The separation will touch every level of the church, even its leadership. Faithful ministers, those who have dedicated their lives to serving God, will be upheld. But, sadly, unsanctified ministers, those who have embraced deception and falsehood, will be exposed. This is a sobering thought, a reminder that even within the church, there will be those who fall away. It emphasizes the importance of personal conviction, of studying God’s Word for ourselves, so that we are not deceived by smooth words or outward appearances. We must be like the Bereans, who “searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11, KJV). Peter guides shepherds, “Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3, KJV). Timothy outlines qualifications, “This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach” (1 Timothy 3:1-2, KJV). A prophetic voice once wrote, “He who fails to be a faithful, discerning shepherd in the home will surely fail of being a faithful shepherd to the flock of God in the church” (Manuscript 42, 1903). In Testimonies to Ministers we read, “God has a distinct people, a church on earth, second to none, but superior to all in their facilities to teach the truth, to vindicate the law of God” (p. 58, 1923). This entire process, though seemingly harsh, is ultimately an act of divine love. But how does judgment reflect God’s boundless love?

DOES JUDGMENT SHOW GOD’S LOVE?

Mercy underlies every divine act of sifting. This entire process, though seemingly harsh, is ultimately an act of divine love. God’s plan, even in its judgments, is rooted in His unwavering love for humanity. As Sr. White states, “Not one is made to suffer the wrath of God until the truth has been brought home to his mind and conscience, and has been rejected” (The Great Controversy, p. 605, 1911). This demonstrates God’s respect for individual choice. He doesn’t force anyone to believe. He provides ample opportunity for everyone to understand the truth, even in the face of deception. He gives us time, like a loving parent patiently teaching a child. He’s not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). God’s love is not permissive; it’s corrective. He allows these challenging times so that we can choose Him freely, with our eyes wide open, and experience the fullness of His grace. Paul reminds of accountability, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10, KJV). The psalmist declares, “He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD” (Psalm 33:5, KJV). The inspired pen notes, “The last rays of merciful light, the last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His character of love” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 415, 1900). A passage from Early Writings reminds us, “I have seen the tender love that God has for His people, and it is very great” (p. 15, 1882). As I reflect on these truths, I am filled with both awe and humility. But where do we personally stand in light of these revelations?

WHERE DO WE FIT IN THIS DRAMA?

Self-examination reveals our place in God’s plan. As I reflect on these truths, I am filled with both awe and humility. I recognize my own need for constant vigilance, for a deeper connection with God’s Word. I must ask myself, “Am I truly seeking truth with all my heart? Am I willing to stand for what is right, even if it means standing alone?” As our community, we must also examine ourselves. Are we fostering an environment of love and acceptance, where all can feel safe to explore truth? Are we supporting one another in our journey of faith? We must remember that we are all on this journey together, and we need each other’s support and encouragement. Paul urges testing, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” (2 Corinthians 13:5, KJV). David prays, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24, KJV). Through inspired counsel we are told, “There is a necessity for close self-examination, and to closely investigate in the light of God’s Word, Am I sound, or am I rotten, at heart?” (Messages to Young People, p. 83, 1930). In The Signs of the Times we read, “Self-examination, with us, may be defined as follows: A strict investigation of our spiritual state, to know whether we are in the faith, to know our defects” (June 15, 1876). The separation that is coming is not something to be feared, but rather a call to clarity. But can we embrace unity through unwavering truth?

CAN TRUTH UNITE US AGAIN?

Harmony flourishes when rooted in divine principles. The separation that is coming is not something to be feared, but rather a call to clarity. It’s an opportunity for us to examine our hearts, to reaffirm our commitment to God, and to stand together in unity, united not by blind adherence to tradition, but by a shared love for truth. As Psalm 91:1 reminds us, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Let us seek that secret place, that refuge of truth and love, so that we may be prepared for whatever lies ahead. Paul calls for like-mindedness, “Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits” (Romans 12:16, KJV). Scripture urges preservation, “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, KJV). A prophetic voice once wrote, “Unity in diversity is God’s plan” (Our High Calling, p. 169, 1961). In The Review and Herald we read, “The first work of Christians is to be united in the family. Then the work is to extend to their neighbors nigh and afar off” (June 6, 1912).

For more articles, please go to http://www.faithfundamentals.blog or our podcast at: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-lamb.

If you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comments below. Prayer meetings are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. To join, enter your email address in the comments section.

Search

Search

SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these prophetic truths, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these complex themes to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about these topics in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of Christ’s soon return and God’s ultimate victory over evil?